Pauline Bartolone

Some 15 states are expected to consider giving advanced practice nurses more independence and authority this year. It's part of a push to meet increased demand for primary care as more people get insurance under the health law.

In the process of creating its health insurance exchange, California wants to rename the marketplace. But it's tough to find a name that appeals to all Californians and explains the marketplace at the same time.

The Sabine National Wildlife Refuge in southwest Louisiana was ravaged by Hurricane Rita in September 2005. Many months later, the massive amount of debris the storm dumped in the Sabine marshland remains, and the area may not be able to act as a buffer between residential areas and coming storms this hurricane season.